Rust can be a huge problem for homeowners, business owners, and property managers. Not only does rust look unsightly, but it can also cause significant damage to concrete surfaces. So, the question on many people’s minds is: can pressure washers remove rust from concrete?
Pressure washing your property once a year can help reduce the amount of rust that accumulates on concrete surfaces.
Read more: When Should I Pressure Wash My House?
Rust can be hazardous and unsightly on concrete surfaces. It can cause discoloration and even damage the structural integrity of your property. Fortunately, pressure washers are an effective solution for removing rust from concrete surfaces.
Read on to understand how rust forms and how pressure washers can help.
Causes of Rust Formation
Rust is a chemical reaction that happens when the metal comes into contact with moisture and oxygen. It is a natural part of the weathering process where metal corrodes and deteriorates due to rain, snow, salt, sun, and other environmental factors. Rust can occur on most types of metal surfaces, including concrete.
Here are some of the common causes of rust formation on concrete:
1) Poorly sealed or painted concrete surfaces
2) Moisture seeping into the concrete from the ground
3) Lack of proper maintenance and cleaning
4) Chemical reactions between acidic liquids and metal surfaces
5) Leaking pipes, gutters, or other plumbing fixtures.
What Is a Pressure Washer and How Does It Work?
A pressure washer is a mechanical sprayer that uses water or other cleaning solutions to remove dirt, dust, mud, and debris from surfaces. Pressure washers use an engine (gas or electric) to power a pump, forcing the cleaning solution through a hose and out of a nozzle at high pressure. The intensity of the pressure depends on the strength of the engine and pump, with some commercial pressure washers capable of pressures up to 4000 PSI.
The key is to use the correct pressure and cleaning solutions for the job. A standard consumer-grade power washer with pressures ranging between 1,500 and 2,000 PSI should be sufficient if a surface has light-to-moderate rust staining. If a surface has more stubborn rust stains, a commercial-grade pressure washer with higher pressures (up to 4,000 PSI) may be necessary.
Steps Followed for Pressure Washing Rust From Concrete
Pressure washing rust from concrete is a multi-step process. The steps include:
a) Choosing the suitable pressure washer and nozzle. The right equipment is essential for effectively removing rust from concrete. A pressure washer with at least 3000 PSI (pounds per square inch) of pressure is necessary, while a nozzle with a 25-degree angle will deliver a powerful stream that can break up rust and debris.
b) Applying a rust remover. A chemical rust remover can help break up the rust on concrete surfaces. After applying the product, allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes before pressure washing.
c) Pressure washing with hot water. Hot water is more effective than cold because it breaks down oils that may have trapped the rust in the concrete.
d) Rinse with cold water. The cold water helps rinse the rust and debris that the pressure washing and chemical rust remover have loosened.
e) Apply a sealer or paint. Once the surface is clean and dry, applying a sealer or fresh coat of paint can help protect it from further damage.
Call Matt’s Exterior Washing for expert concrete cleaning in Cumming. Our team of experienced professionals uses pressure washers and other methods to ensure your concrete surfaces are clean and rust-free.